SAN MARINO HIGH SCHOOL TITAN SHIELD

Volume LVIII, Issue 2, Circulation 1600 San Marino, California, 91108 October 23, 2009 Future of Adobe House at Risk since 1991. Lacy Park has not been favorable By Amrapali Gokani With breaking foundation and to the school board nor the district News Editor termites, the house is no longer budget. The 1.4-mile move would San Marino Unifi ed School safe for occupation. The insurance cost at least $1.6 million. In District (SMUSD) is debating company of SMUSD has offered addition, the upgrades the house about moving or demolishing the $175,000 to bring the issue of the needs in plumbing, electrical, Michael White Adobe House. The house to a swift outcome. fl ooring, and roofi ng would cost decision will be made on October Currently, four different anywhere from $500 to $70,000 ASB Historian Senior Andrew Ching prepares for Red Ribbon Week by 27. possibilities have been discussed. once the Adobe reaches Lacy tying ribbons on trees around campus. Andrea Chiu//TITAN SHIELD The San Marino School Board These include the Adobe being Park. held a series of public hearings left as it is, moving it to Lacy “Our experts are telling us on the future of the Adobe house. Park, refurbishing the building up they do not have evidence of a ASB Hosts Red The house is currently located in to standards, and disassembling successful move of an adobe. SMHS next to the swimming pool. the building and to reconstruct it We’re trying to fi nd a way to Over the past years, the house at a later time. protect and preserve as much of served as a storage area for SMHS School Board President Jeannie the original adobe as possible, but Ribbon Week cheerleaders and as the home for Caldwell told the San Marino it’s very diffi cult,” commented Lady Nancy Reagan nationally the San Marino Historical Society Tribune, “We would entertain any SMUSD Superintendent Dr. Gary By Helen Hejran recognized Red Ribbon Week before they moved. legitimate option that would have Woods to the Los Angeles Times. Staff Writer in 1988. Currently, over 80 According to old school board as an outcome a move to Lacy SMUSD placed the Adobe SMHS ASB hosted four events million people participate in agendas, SMUSD has been Park.” However, the price it throughout October including Red Red Ribbon Week every year. looking for a place for the Adobe would cost to move the Adobe to (Continued on page 4) Ribbon Week from October 19 to Red Ribbon Week is arranged 23, Movie Night on October 20, by the National Family the October 19 California Pizza Partnership (NFP) in tribute Kitchen (CPK) fundraiser, and to Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, the Noodle World Fundraiser on a U.S. Drug Enforcement October 6. Administration agent, who died Red Ribbon Week is held to in the fi ght against drugs. give an understanding on living “[Red Ribbon Week] affects an alcohol and drug-free life to us in a positive way because the student body. it brings about the idea of “[Red Ribbon Week for no drugs,” refl ected ASB creating] awareness concerning Athletics Director Senior Ravin the problems related to the use of Ratnayake. tobacco, alcohol and other drugs Throughout the week, and to support the decision to live there were red ribbons a healthy, drug-free lifestyle,” along Huntington Drive. In commented ASB President Senior addition, students received the Stephanie Chow. opportunity to sign a pledge that Red Ribbon Week is a national states how they will live drug- event that began in California in free life. On Thursday, students the mid-1980s. Former President The Michael White Adobe house, whose future is undecided, stands on SMHS property behind the swimming pool and Ronald Reagan and Former First (Continued on page 5) next to the baseball fi eld. Vivian Lee//TITAN SHIELD Tennis Triumphs Wildcats dominance into 6-0 victories over the Number Three Singles Inside This Issue: By David Gelt Managing Editor over the Number Three Singles Player from Monrovia. Michelle Player and Number One Player, Gandawidjaja won her third match AFS Presents Exchange Program On Tuesday, October 20, the respectively. with another 6-0 victory over the News (pg. 4) San Marino Lady Titans’ Varsity In the third singles round, Number One Singles Player for Smoke Arises from Auditorium (pg. 5) Tennis team handled the Monrovia Coach Paula Bush substituted the Lady Wildcats, and Larissa Lady Wildcats in a 18-0 rout. In Senior Taylor Chan for Michelle won by a 6-0 score for the third Rotary of the Month: Joyce Li the fi rst round of singles, Junior Chee in the Number One Singles (pg. 6) Number One Singles Player spot, where Taylor won 6-2 (Continued on page 14) Features In Memory of Alumnus Christopher Michelle Chee won her match Ng (pg. 7) 7-6 over the Monrovia Number One Singles, Sophomore Number Politicians Hand Out Undeserved Two Singles Player Michelle Scholarships (pg. 9) Opinion Gandawidjaja won 6-1 over her Soda Tax Promotes Economic Lady Wildcats counterpart, and Recovery (pg. 9) Freshman Number Three Singles Trick-Or-Fruit! (pg. 11) Player Larissa Phillips won 6-0 Spectrum ‘It’s Glee Club. Not Crunk Club’ over the Number Three Singles (pg. 12) Player from Monrovia, giving the Lady Titans a 3-0 lead. Football’s Streak Halted By Wildcats Then, in the second round of Sports (pg. 15) singles play, Michelle Chee won Girls’ Volleyball Falters to Monrovia her match 6-3 against the Lady (pg. 16) Wildcats Number Two Player while Michelle Gandawidjaja Junior Kate Knauss uses a forehand to slap the ball over the net in Tuesday’s and Larissa both extended their game against Monrovia. Jilly Ko//TITAN SHIELD 10 TITAN SHIELD OPINION OCTOBER 23, 2009 Current Homework Load Limits Students teenagers, whose bodies are still they enjoy or providing an USA Today says there is “ample comprehension. Placing more ByJenny Huang, Guest Writer growing. In fact, the San Gabriel outlet for self-expression, evidence to suggest that lack of value on teaching material in Alexa Wei, Opinion Editor School Board recently approved extracurriculars are part of the homework leaves U.S. students class instead of rushing through Many students complain about a new homework policy due to college application process. High less prepared to compete in the it would lessen the need for the huge load of homework they strong concerns expressed in a school prepares students for global economy.” homework and remedy this receive every day. High school survey conducted by the Board college, but spending excessive However, students with ambition problem. teachers should give out less Advisory Committee. The policy time on homework could hurt a and a real willingness to learn will homework in order to improve stated that long-term projects student’s chance of getting into a always do well, regardless of how “Having a ton their students’ quality of life. cannot be assigned right before college of their choice. If colleges much schoolwork they are forced Students nowadays are under a vacation and also be due search for well-rounded students, to do. Students who make school of schoolwork to too much pressure. If they want immediately after the vacation. who have other a priorty study and work hard on to succeed in school, they must This prevents students from being their own. On the contrary, students complete over a study for the constant quizzes, overworked during the holidays who do not particularly care about tests, projects, and homework, not when they are supposeded school, but perform well in other holiday defeats to mention the worry and stress to be taking a break fromm areas, probably would not do caused by this work overload. school. Having a ton of the assigned homework anyway the purpose of a Despite this, teachers expect schoolwork to completee and would continue to pursue over a holiday defeatss oother interests. Less homework holiday.” the purpose of taking thee wwould allow them to be more “Going to sleep holiday from school. For acactivet in their interests without Teachers should do their best to late and then this reason, other schools penpenalizing them. help students grasp the concepts should follow San Gabriel’s Also, if a student of the material being taught rather waking up example and lessen their fefeels overwhelmed by than assign enormous amounts of own homework loads. hhomework, they may copy homework and expect students early to come to Having an enormous a classmate’s answers, to learn the material practically amount of homework is not learning anything on their own. Instead, teachers school at 8 a.m. also an inconveniece to the parents in the process and should assign less homework and of students. Some parents stay undermining the compensate by spending more is unhealthy for up until their children fi nish purpose of doing class time reviewing concepts. their homework. This is unfair homework in the Having less homework would teenagers.” to the adults, who also need to fi rst place. It is more mean that students would have sleep. Too many late nights could interests or hobbies, then it is not important for a student to more time to sleep or participate in students to have the time to fi nish lead to decreased productivity in in a college-bound student’s best understand the material being other activities. Also, more sleep all that. It is diffi cult for students the workplace and poor health. interest to forgo these activities in taught rather than spending could improve students’ health. to complete all of their necessary In addition to completing favor of completing a homework time fi nishing homework for Thus, less homework provides a schoolwork and still have time homework, many students assignment. homework’s sake and failing to practical and viable solution for for the recommended eight hours also engage in extracurricular Despite the obvious benefi ts of understand the concepts being overworked students and their of sleep. Going to sleep late and activities. less homework, some educators taught. The student’s focus have parents. then waking up early to come to Aside from giving students a claim that it would make students turned homework into something school at 8 a.m. is unhealthy for chance to participate in something irresponsible. A 2006 article in to be fi nished for credit, not OCTOBER 23, 2009 SPECTRUM TITAN SHIELD 11 ONLINE ADVENTURES The website “My Life is Average’ HAVE A healthy halloween! (MLIA) is like the popular FML’s quirkier, optimistic, and awkward BY MATHEW LIM// SPECTRUM EDITOR cousin. If MLIA was going to be in Although this is unlikely, treaters is the perfect way personally buyuy most a movie, it’d be played by Zooey sometimes candy can get to dish out these delicious huge packageses Deschanel. That is the sort of boring on Halloween. But, snacks. And because it’s dark, of gum and favored peculiar cuteness it is home to. It fear not, Spectrum is here they won’t even be able to cookies househ is also apparently where all the to help you substitute tell the difference between from nearbyby on the hardcore Harry Potter fans went, those vile sweets with a shriveled fruit and chocolatey stores. Best block. so it’s like a reunion for me. Let me healthy alternatives. goodness. of all, you If There are a number of Another great idea is passing can buy these explain; MLIA is where people can you are fruits and vegetables out sugar-free items. One in bulk because still yearningy post random, often pop-culture- suitable as Halloween example would be sugar-free they will neverver for betterbette ways referencing, stories that show how treats. For example, dried cookies, a healthier way to expire and give to improveimprov your their life is not average at all. These mangoes and pineapples spread that Halloween cheer out the sameame Halloween, then include wearing snuggies to gym are a sweet and delicious among your friends. Obviously, cookies and gumgum why not exercise?ex class or saying that you intend to alternatives to teeth- sugar-free cookies are better year after year.ar. Doing push-upsp marry a man who pastes a gold star rotting candy. Healthy tasting than those factory These treats willwill are a great way to on the crayon drawing in your dorm. and fruity foods never hurt -processed sugar cookies. defi nitely catchtch pump iron into those All of the posts end with “MLIA” and anyone. Cutting them into These treats are simple and the attention ofof arms. Make a habitha to then can be rated by other people cubes and serving them fun to make, anda they will all children. do fi fty push-ups push-u for on the site. A post will receive either to hungrygry trick- surely plplease most If all else fails, there every house you go to. By a rating of “Average” or “Meh,” with or- trick-or-treaters.trick-o is one last resort everyone the end of the day you should “Average” being the best. But there’s If not, then surely can look to: salt, the exact feel exhausted but still no real criteria for what makes a sugar-freesugar- gum opposite of what you think accomplished. post “average” or “meh” and what shouldshou satisfy kids would get on Halloween. With health conscious makes a post qualify for MLIA can the sweet Pretzels, beef jerky, and parents these days, it is be hard to pin down. If you want to crcravingsav of tortilla chips can serve as essential to fi nd better know whether your story belongs all children. a midnight snack to hungry alternatives to sweets and on MLIA, it’s best to read some of the Who wouldw not children. What better way to candies. If we change these others to get a better idea. Here’s a want a deliciousd spend a cold dark night than sugary treats to healthier sample: unsweeunsweetenedt with a pinch of salt? With salt alternatives, we can alter the “Today, there was a new teacher. gummy sensatsensation? I in your arsenal, you will be the future of Halloween forever. He needed nametags, and on mine, I put "Aslan, King of Narnia". He bowed to me. I think its gonna be a good year. MLIA.” the attack of the zombie bears This next one has a Harry Potter Our ststoryory bebeginsgins with to rumble in the distance. As and cereal crunching in rendered all the zombie bears reference similar to many others: a wealthythy stockbroker by JaJackck tturnedur around to get his between their claws. Anger unconscious with a shattering “Today, I was in line at the grocery the nameame of Jack Sawai.Sawai. phphone,one, tthehe llightsights shshut off, burned in his heart as he roundhouse kick. store, telling my friend about He wasas looking fforor leleavingaving a stunnestunnedd Jack in witnessed the squandering Jack quickly tied up the how the bad weather was making a cheapeap darkness.darkness. JackJack stood of all his hard-earned bears and waited patiently. The bears, however, didn’t me depressed and hopeless. The place to transfixedtra cash at the hands of these buildild whilew monsters. Infuriated at the seem willing to speak, so old man in front of us must have his neneww hishis house destruction of his dishware, he encouraged them with a overheard because he bought me house.use. becamebecam silent. Jack charged towards the whack to the head. With their a bar of chocolate and said "for the Alongong ththee Abruptly,Abr bears. The bears, noticing the inability to speak English, Jack Dementors." That's the nicest thing way,y, he met a moaningmoanin sounds sudden movement, growled gave them a piece of paper and anyone has ever done for me. MLIA.” mysteriousysterious aandnd beganbegan to arise. The aggressively as Jack neared. asked them to draw. Instead shady reall estatestate soundssounds bbecameec louder, Right when Jack was within of answering Jack’s questions, Another great thing about MLIA agent known as The Dealer sendingsending a chill downn JackJack’s s rarange,nge, the three bears oopenedpened ththeyey ddrew a picture depicting is that it is remarkably innocent. who introduces him to spine. their mouths, produced countlcountless tortured spirits and Most posts would be rated either The Wasteland, which was He needed too find rotting fish, and hurled a stranstrange ring. PG-13 or lower if they were being infamous for being a cursed something, a weapon,on, to FrFrustrated, Jack took judged by the movie ratings radioactive pet burial site. defend himself. The closest the ring off one of the Not knowing that the land thing he could findd to a bebears and smashed it into system. Profanity and sexuality are was tainted, Jack quickly weapon was a bambooo stick. piecpieces. Without warning, surprisingly absent, making this the purchased the land without Being a self-pronouncednounced they began to rise into the site that Internet perversion forgot. any hesitation. master of Tai-Chihi and air, ththey were as if suspended This is one of the reasons why MLIA It wasn’t long before various disciplines, Jackack felt by sosome divine force. Right restores my hope in my fellow man disaster struck. The confidence surge throughugh befobefore they disappeared intinto the skies, they spoke and actually makes me want to leave first morning after Jack his body. Leaving the moved in, he looked out room, Jack preparedpared iin fluent English, “This is my house and talk to strangers. I the window, horrified himself for the worst. a sacred burial ground. realize that there are a bunch of at the sight that befell While Jack walked out of LeLeave immediately. If people out there like me and I want him. Headstones had the room, crunching and yoyou don’t you will die to befriend all of them. They should spontaneously sprouted screeching noises filled a horrible death from be pretty easy to fi nd because a lot from the ground, carved the air. He pivoted his ccancer.” with engravements of head toward the cornerner After the zombie bears of them will be wearing shirts with horrific-looking bears. Jack of the wall to seee his didisappeared, Jack quickly ninjas, superheroes, or dinosaurs on spent the whole morning kitchen. What Jack sawaw were them directly packed up his bags and moved them. MLIA. contemplating the three zombie bears ravenouslyvenously at him. With out to live the rest of his life, incident, when suddenly devouring all the foodod in his hihiss bamboo happily ever after. -Alexa Wei// Opinion Editor the sky turned gray and refrigerator. Jack could hear sword, Jack deflected all their sinister, and thunder began the sounds of dishes breaking stinky projectiles and swiftly -Kerry Chen// Photographer 12 TITAN SHIELD SPECTRUM OCTOBER 23, 2009 THE SOUND OF GLEE Dancing and singing Will Schuester, played by according to the self- Although the story line to Glee Cast songs! In teens on FOX?! Has High Matt Morrison, as he tries proclaimed star Rachel may seem rather ordinary, fact, a personal favorite School Musical finally to transform Glee Club, Berry, played by Lea the subplots and extremely of mine is the mash up of become a television which consists of 12 social Michele, being part of entertaining performance All My Life/Confessions series? Have my dreams outcasts and underdogs, something special makes numbers are keyyp aspects Part II. Not only do I come true?? DO I GET TO from drab to fab. Basically, you special, right? Hence, off Glee. The watch Glee religiously, I SEE ZAC EFRON EVERY Mr. Schuester is attempting Mr. Schuester is faced with characters’har a cters’ pride myself in having all WEDNESDAY NIGHT!? to save a sinking ship. the task of inspiring the uniquenique but the recent Glee renditions Unfortunately, not… However, the members of talented, but unfocused endearingn d earing (downloaded legally, of but nonetheless, I was Glee Club are very gifted. performers to enter, and personalitiese rsonalities course!). anything butut ddisappointedisappointed SomeSome ofof ththee mostmost sstunningtunning hopefully win, the biggest createeate aann Glee is a definite after the hour.our. From ththatat starsstars of Glee Club incluincludede competition of them all: upliftingp lifting must-see television moment on,n, GleeGleee entered Kurt,Kurt, a soprano whowho Nationals. Ooh! Not to auraura tthathat show and the my life, almostmost literally. iis s also qquite the mention, one cannot makesakes moment you Although I admit that I fashionista; help but adore Glee Club’s thehe encounter Sue enjoy watchingtching tthehe brightest entertainer, show’show’s Sylvester’s logic, now clichédlichéd Rachel. She is titletle Glee you’ll be sucked in. theme of rich convinced that appropriateppropriate for So conform with people leadingading her MySpace thehe pplot.lot. Also, me next Wednesday scandalous llivesives page and as nine o’ cclocklock and watch Glee! And and the new performances drawsraws near on if I could, I would sign craze of vampirempire will ultimately WWednesdays,ednesdays, I my name here and shows, I wantedanted lead her to fame. In fact, alwaysways look fforwardorward stick a gold star after something new, each morning at precisely too GGleelee CClub’slub’s nnewew it because metaphors and Glee wasas thethe 6 a.m., Rachel enjoys a renditionndition of a song. are important. So breath of ffreshresh protein shake of banana Eachach perperformanceformance the gold stars are a air I needed.d. Mercedes,Mercedes, and flaxseed oil, and then hasas been metaphor for me The series a larger-than- proceeds to run on the completelyo mpletely being a star. follows aann lifelife ddiva;iva; aandnd elliptical machine while amazing,mazing, aandnd bebeforefore optimistic high Artie, a geeky focusing all her energy on you know it, you’ll have -Kimberly Nguyen// school teacher,cher, Mr. guitarist. BButut one goal: becoming a star. a whole playlist dedicated Managing Editor BEWARE OF THE SAT Halloween may test] started, so then came back really the passages, I felt like I should have studied. be just around the the teacher was like quickly, and we [asked I was [going to] faint, I was really upset.” corner, but for many ‘Okay, go!’ She was her] if she found the and my desk was students across the about to walk out the bathroom, but she covered with [so[ Julie Truongg, senior: nation, it came early door when she [said] said she’d gog duringg mmany]any] “In myy classclassroom, it this year on Saturday, she didn’t know where break. The test hadhad was reallyy cold,c and October 10. On this the bathroom was. actually started I ddon’ton’t knknowo what day (among many We spent another and we wereere fi llllinging iitt wwasas bbutut tthere was others), students of fi ve minutes trying to out the informationformation this sounsoundd thatt kept all gradess took the explain [wh[when]e shehe calledcalled goinggg like ‘e‘eerrrrrrr’ SAT Reasoningeasoning the tteacherr ooverver the whowholele testt time. and Subjectubjectj and wwhisperedred useusedd IItt went oonn [for a] Tests, andd for in hish ear soso titissuesssues rreallyeallyyg longlong time. No anyone whoho has she could that I one could conconcentrate lived throughrough gog fi nd thee ccouldn’touldn’t or anything.anything. Another the experience,ience, bathbathroomr again.g sseeee thethe [test dday],ay], tthe room the whole So wwe startedrted tthehe ttest.”est.” was really stuffy.”st process canan be SAT pretty late.late. a nightmare.mare. KKateyatey UnUnlikelike Halloween,H From the CharCharles Lin, sensenior:ior: the SAT ccana affect fl u to minor “I wasw sickck yyouou in thet long- emergencies,cies, on SASAT dayy ttermerm when problems ran and whenen iitt comesco to amuck in these I wwente intonto mymy aapplyingpplyi to students’ts’ rooroom,m everyone Soltzbergl b , colleges.ll From these horror storiesories looklookede at me as if senior: “I signed up students’ accounts, of the SAT.T. theyy already knew I to take two subject it seems like a to was sick.s Then during tests, and I thought, very frustrating Michelle Hsu, her the test I basically ‘Well, I took classes experience no matter junior: Whenhen I where the cougcoughedgh every fi ve to about them so I how much you study, was taking theth bbathroomh was, seven seconds on the shouldn’t study and so be prepared for SAT, the girl who and when she left the girl in front of me. just wing it,’ but I anything. sat in front of me classroom, we saw her I think she sort of did really bad. So I had to go use the outside the window fl inched the fi rst few have to take it again -Samantha Lai// bathroom before [the running around. She times. While reading [when the fi rst time] Managing Editor

OCTOBER 23, 2009 SPORTS TITAN SHIELD 14 Girls’ Titan Tennis Walks SM Cross Country Hosts League Meet On Monrovia Wildcats Caitlin Hittner secured the 21st By Kevin Tran (Continued from page 1) victory in the fi rst round against partner Sophomore Number Three Staff Writer spot. their Monrovia counterparts. Doubles Player Crystal Yang won Danielle commented on the time of the day, beating the Lady Senior Number Two Doubles 6-1 against the Monrovia Number Last week on Thursday, team that “Our team did very well Wildcats Number Two Singles Player Janney Lin and Junior Three Doubles Team. October 15, the Titan’s Cross considering that we had a few Player. Number Two Doubles Player Kate In the second round, Jeannie Country team participated in a injuries and absences.” In doubles play, Senior Captain Knauss won 6-1 over the Number and Anya won 6-1 over the Lady Rio Hondo League Meet, the The Titans boys varsity team Number One Doubles Player Two Doubles Team for the Lady Wildcats Number Two Doubles second league meet of the season, was also faced with a few absences Jeannie Peterson combined with Wildcats. Team, while Janney and Kate held at Lacy Park. and injuries. However, that did Junior Number One Doubles Also, Junior Number Three defeated the Lady Wildcats Despite a handful of injuries not keep them from fi nishing in Player Anya Laibangyang for a 6-0 Doubles Player Calyx Chang and Number Three Doubles Team 6-1, on the teams, the Titan Varsity at third place overall in the boy’s and Calyx and Crystal won 6-1, Girls’ runners still managed to division. defeating the Monrovia Number fi nish in at fourth place in the Leading the boy’s varsity team One Doubles Team, putting the girl’s division. In this second in the three-mile race was Junior Lady Titans up a commanding league meet, each runner must Michael Gimbel who fi nished in 15-0. run a total of three miles around at 17:06 in tenth place. As the fi nal round took place, Lacy Park. Seven runners later, Senior Jeannie and Anya continued their The Varsity Girls’ team had a Constantin Raether reeled in the dominance in a 6-0 victory, this few substitutions due to injuries. 17th place spot with a time of time against the Number Three Junior Erin Lew was sidelined 17:51. Coming in after his fellow Team for the Lady Wildcats. from this race due to a hip injury, teamate at 19th place was Senior Janney and Kate fought their way while Junior Saskia Raether could Sean Silva, who obtained a time to a 6-4 win, defeating the Number not participate due to tendonitis. of 18:06. One Doubles Team for Monrovia Replacing the two juniors from Fellow teammate Sophomore and Calyx and Crystal won 6-0 the race were Freshman Marina Robert Moreton came in right after against the Number Two Doubles Flores and Freshman Lindsay Sean in 20th place with a time Team of the Lady Wildcats. Snaer. of 18:10 capping off the major At the end of the day, San Being freshman on the Varsity performances by the Titan Boys’ Marino ended the match with an team did not prevent the two girls Varsity Cross Country team. 18-0 victory, continuing their Rio from doing well, as Lindsay Snaer Although this meet did not Hondo League dominance and grabbed 27th place with a time qualify any of the runners for inching themselves closer to a top of 23:14 and teammate Marina CIF, Michael refl ected after the seed in the CIF Playoffs. Flores came in right afterwards, meet, “We improved greatly Yesterday, the Lady Titans taking 28th place with a time of from the fi rst meet of the season. traveled to Temple City for their 23:29. We hope that we can keep this second match of the season against Leading the San Marino’s strong effort up for the rest of the the Lady Rams. San Marino’s next Varsity Girls runners was Junior meets.” match is at home next week on Captain Danielle Knott, who The Titan’s next meet, The Tuesday, October 27, where they came in at fi fth place with a time Cougar 2 Mile, takes place next Junior Calyx Chang strokes the ball over the net in a previous match against will host the rival South Pasadena of 20:05. Finishing the race week on October 30th at the Azusa the Wildcats. Jilly Ko//TITAN SHIELD Lady Tigers. with a time of 22:22, Sophomore Pacifi c University. Girls’ Volleyball Loses to Cats in Five Games Elizabeth serves up two points, still maintained their lead to rally, the Lady Wildcats slowly continued without any replays. By Joie Fan but the Lady Wildcats still manage throughout the game despite the began to take the lead 6-8 despite After the game, Senior Captain Staff Writer to side out and score twice pulling Lady Wildcat’s attempts to faze kills from Kelsey. The Titans still Catherine Barth commented, The San Marino Girls’ Varsity them up to 18-24. The game San Marino. As the fourth game continued to fi ght for points and a “We had some controversial calls Volleyball traveled to Monrov ia ends with a serving ace by Lady neared its end, a kill by Elizabeth kill by Catherine pushed the score against us, but overall I thought High School on Tuesday, October Wildcats ending the game with a concluded an intense rally and to 10-12. we played really well.” 20, to face the Lady Wildcats in score of 18-25. brought the Titans up 24-19. The As the game was tied 12-12, Assistant Coach Allan stated, an intense match. The Titans wer During the second set, Freshman set ended 25-20 with a block by both teams fought hard for the “I felt we had a victory in our e unable to emerge victorious, Setter Amanda Yee started out the Junior Middle Blocker Alexandra last few points. However, with an defeat. I believe you should never falling 2-3to the Wildcats. The game with a serving run of two Shelburne. unforced error by San Marino, the count defeat as failure, especially Titans and Wildcats met head- including an ace serve. In the fi nal 15 point match Lady Wildcats took the win with if you gain something from it. The on in fi ve games, the Titans Both team traded points for against the Lady Wildcats, a an ace serve ending the game 12- varsity girls showed more heart with a loss in the fi rst, third, and several plays with San Marino block by Kathleen won Titans the 15. than I have ever seen during game with the fi fth game ending in a taking the lead 7-4. The Titans fi rst point. However, Monrovia Although the Lady Titans fi ve, and so we will try to create a controversial manner. then pulled ahead on a 4-0 run. regained possession of the ball accepted defeat, several calls by training environment that touches In the fi rst game, San Marino However, Lady Wildcats refused and added three points. the referee in the last crucial points upon those same feelings and stayed well matched with to back down. Strong defense up A block by Jackie halted the of game fi ve and throughout the grow from there.” Monrovia with the score tied at the net did not allow the Lady Lady Wildcats’ progress and match were debatable. After the Lady Titans’ loss to at 4-4, until the Lady Wildcats Wildcats to push further with an ace by Junior Libero Casey The referee did not see a touch Monrovia, their season record gained four more points due to the Titans up 20-13. The Lady McCloskey brought the score to a on an out-of-bounds traveling ball now stands at 6-5 overall and 3-2 San Marino’s unforced errors Wildcats still put up a good effort tie at 3-3. As the teams continued and a net, subsequently the games in Rio Hondo League play. moving the score to 4-8. with kills pulling them up to 23- However, Junior Outside Hitter 17. However, with an out-of- Kelsey Buckner ended the Lady bounds spike by Monrovia, Titans Wildcat’s run with a kill. Both earn back the serve and fi nish up teams fought hard in rallies, but the game 25-18. Monrovia found a way to keep the The Lady Wildcats started lead with the score 8-13. the third game with a quick four A kill from Middle Blocker unanswered points. Although the Elizabeth Shelburne ended the Titans played a strong back-row Lady Wildcats’ streak, but the defense, Monrovia’s roll-shots intensity of both teams continued. and tips managed to stay out of An intense rally including a spike our grasp pushing the score to by Senior Outside Hitter Catherine 1-7. Barth and block by Sophomore Although Senior Opposite Middle Blocker Kathleen Sloan Hitter Jackie Hackett ended their pushed the score to 12-18. As run with a kill, Lady Wildcats the game neared the end, Senior still continue to push points. Libero Noviana Thio managed Throughout the rest of the game, to cover the blocks; however the Monrovia still maintained their Lady Wildcats still maintained strong lead and fi nally closed up their lead 14-21. the game 11-25 with a kill. With San Marino down 15- The Titans began the fourth 22, good defense up at the net by game with a 5-0 lead including Catherine and Elizabeth allowed two aces by Amanda. As the Sophomore Middle Blocker Kathleen Sloan rises above the net to block a Wildcat spike over the net during Tuesday’s the Titans to score a point. teams traded points, the Titans game against Monrovia. Michael BernStein//TITAN SHIELD OCTOBER 23, 2009 SPORTS TITAN SHIELD15 Wildcats End Titan Winning Streak Receiver Stevie Yortsos returning protagonists. the Titans began their drive at the The beginning of the second By Doug Mayberry the ball to the Titans’ own 18-yard This brought up a long third Wildcats 40-yard line and started half stood at a standstill when the Staff Writer line. From there, the Titan offense down and 11. However, the Titans the barrage of plays. The drive third quarter ended with the score This past Friday, October 16, began to roll, conducted by Senior failed to execute and were forced was eventually capped off with a 6-14. the San Marino Titans hosted the Captain Quarterback Joe Forgatch. to punt. reception by Senior Wide Receiver The fourth quarter came down Monrovia Wildcats for a league The drive started off with a 13- After the punt, the Monrovia Tim Lo. Although Stevie missed to much of the same, both teams showdown between two Rio yard reception to Senior Tight End Wildcats brought their prolifi c the PAT, the Titans kept the game stagnant in score until the last Hondo powerhouses. The Titans Reed Semcken and from there, the offense to the fi eld and after 10 close, ending the fi rst quarter of fi ve minutes of the game. Rather were considered underdogs in this Titans began their eternal march plays and 64 yards, a Wildcat play with the score standing at 6-7 than back down into defeat, Joe situation, with the number one downfi eld toward their opponents scored on a 3-yard touchdown run. in the Wildcats’ favor. scrambled out of the pocket and Wildcats trying to extend their end zone. Senior Fullback Ben Headed by Junior Quarterback But the game was far from over. ran into the end zone, closing winning streak against the Titans Harwich rushed for six yards on Nick Bueno, the Wildcats offense Although the fi rst two Titan drives the gap to 12-14 in favor of the to seven consecutive wins. the drive, but after three plays, showed their all-but-outstanding of the second quarter resulted in Wildcats. Down two points and The Titans started off on a good the Titan machine sputtered and a ability. punts, each drive was a well- looking for the tie, San Marino note, with Senior Captain Wide false start was called against their With a rejuvenated offense, fought battle. tried for a two-point conversion On Monrovia’s second drive after the touchdown. of the second quarter, Nick struck Joe started out of the shotgun, through the heart of the Titan with a three wide receiver set. defense, scoring on a 16-yard run. Joe already knew his intended After the score, Monrovia kicked receiver. Stevie stood out left the ball off to the Titan offense and and ran a short out. Joe coiled San Marino began their comeback. his arm back and launched the The Titans came out of the gate ball. Unfortunately, a Monrovia strong, with a 29-yard pass to defensive back read the play Benny. San Marino drove the ball and dove out to defl ect the pass. down to the Wildcat 2-yard line. Joe’s pass fell short, silencing the The situation looked bright for the crowd. San Marino lost the game Titans, but the Wildcats’ defense 12-14 to their league opponent. hung strong, bringing up a fourth After the game, Joe noted on and one situation for the Titans. the execution of the Titans saying, From there, Offensive “I think we can walk away from Coordinator Mike Mooney called the game proud because we a run to Ben. During the play, played with a perfect effort which Monrovia pried the ball out of is all you can ask for. We just need Ben’s hands and after a scramble, to work on our execution.” the Wildcats recovered the The Titans now grasp a 5-1 fumble. record as they continue league Soon, the fi rst half of play play hoping to improve this record Senior Running Back Benny Hung runs down fi eld and stiff arms a Wildcat defender in last Friday’s 12-14 loss against ended and the Titans headed to the during tonight’s game against the Monrovia. Justin Quan//TITAN SHIELD locker room down 6-14. South Pasadena Tigers. Los Angeles Basketball Preview against the Magic. Although hurt the bench to challenge the franchise, but things are looking him without hesitation. Combine for much of last season, Bynum Lakers. Look for Los Angeles to different this year. Many people these three young players and you Lakers showed signs of dominance win the franchise’s 16th NBA have not watched them over the have a very solid lineup for years By David Gelt when he was healthy. ChChampionship.ampionship. lastlast ccoupleo years and nobody has to come. Managing Editor Artest signed with thehe LakersLakers seen wwhat is brewing. But, the Clippers also have After a short off season, Guard this off season after a yearyear in n TheThe Clippers have made some veteran talent that will help Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Houston. Artest has pl playedayedd severalsevera great draft picks in the them make a playoff run. Led Lakers are poised and ready to solid defense his entirentire lastlast ccoupleo years, and the young by veteran Guard Baron Davis, repeat as NBA Champions. career, winning the Defensivensive talenttalent is really contributing to the and Center Marcus Camby, the After finishing the regular Player of the Year awardaward team.teaam. The selection of Forward Clippers have experienced players season with the best record in multiple times and is a threatthreat All TThorntonh from Florida State that know how to play the game the Western Conference and to score at any time. Kobeobe willwill inin 220070 is beginning to seem the right way. a game behind the Cleveland come into the season hungryungry fforor veryveery promising. Thornton is a Last year the team also showed Cavaliers for the best record in a fifth championship. veryveery llarge physical talent that has bright spots in big games. One the NBA, the Lakers ran through After winning his firstrst MoMoststs broughtbroug good energy to the team. of which is when the Clippers the first two rounds of the Valuable Player awardrd two Ann extremelye athletic forward, destroyed the Boston Celtics last Western Conference playoff s to years ago, Kobe made it clearclear hee sserveser as a mismatch against year at their own Staples Center. face the Denver Nuggets in the that he wanted anotherer ring. manymany teams. The Clippers have also faced Western Conference Finals. This season, despite wwatchingatching However,How Thornton needs many other high caliber teams and In the Conference Finals, the Cleveland Forward LeBron to wworko on his shot selection have beaten them. Lakers and Nuggets squared off . James take home regularregular becausebeecau he tends to take shots On the other hand, they have The Lakers earned their ticket season MVP honors, Kobeobe led thatthat aare simply out of his range. also played down to some of the to the NBA Finals winning the his team to the Championshipionship Inn thethe 2008 Draft Los Angeles worse teams and lost to many of series 4-2. The Lakers then won where he won the Finalsls MMVP.VP. selectedselecte Guard Eric Gordon from them. If they wish to have a good the NBA Finals in dominating On the bench this season,seasonn, Indiana.Inndian Gordon was one of the season, they need to play their fashion, crushing the Orlando Los Angeles will have ForwardForward biggestbigges impacts on the team in game to the best of their ability Magic in five games to earn their Lamar Odom, Guard S Shannonhannon hishis rookiero season last year. He regardless of the opponent. 15th NBA Championship. Brown, Guard Sasha V Vujacic,ujacicc, hashahas establishedes himself as one of This season the Clippers could In the off season, the Lakers Guard Jordan Farmar, Forward the leagues better scorers, with an make a huge step forward, and watched Small Forward Trevor Josh Powell, Forward Luke Clippe rs average of 16.1 points per game. I believe they will. They have Ariza depart for Houston but Walton, and Center D.J. Mbenga However, the Clippers did not several star talents across the added Small Forward Ron all playing major minutes this have a very promising season, NBA, but they need to buy into By Luke Benuska Artest. despite the solid play of both this season and play aggressively season. Sports Editor To start out this season, Los Angeles seems ready to Gordon and Thornton. But on in all their games. The Clippers Head Coach Phil Jackson will run through the regular season Every single year when the bright side, that landed them are always said to be “cursed” start Guard Derek Fisher, Kobe, again. The Lakers is staring basketball season rolls around, all the fi rst overall selection in this by many analysts but this year, Artest, Forward Pau Gasol, and at the one seed in this year’s eyes are on the Lakers. But, this summer’s NBA draft. they will show everyone that young Center Andrew Bynum. Western Conference Playoff s. year there will be two teams to The obvious selection was they can win games. I predict that In last season’s playoff s, Fisher No other team this year watch for in Los Angeles. college superstar Forward Blake Los Angeles will shock the NBA played good defense and hit a seems to have the talent in Common perception is that Griffi n. The Clippers did not pass along with its watchers and make game winning three-point shot their lineup or the depth on the Clipper can never win as a up on this opportunity and selected the Western Conference playoffs. 16 TITAN SHIELD SPORTS OCTOBER 23, 2009 Broncos’ Success Headlines Early NFL Surprises issues, began to act horribly at it was a chance for McDaniels to scheme emphasizes the speed of Other Notable Suprises: By Luke Benuska practice. He seriously wanted an stick it to his old boss and team. their defense. Defensive End Elvis Cedric Benson: Benson at the Sports Editor extension to his contract but he The Broncos came and never even Dumerville has been a monster start of this week was third in the The National Football League was not getting it. So in response blinked; they played the Patriots for the Broncos this year. He is NFL in rushing yards. Benson has (NFL) is the biggest league for the to that, Marshall also demanded tough the whole game and won it very undersized for a defensive put up these Pro Bowl numbers most popular sport in the United a trade. To make matters worse, in overtime on a Matt Prater fi eld lineman but has dominated bigger behind a suspect offensive line. States. Millions of Americans turn video clips began to appear of goal. The following week they lineman all year with his speed. on their televisions to watch NFL Marshall dropping balls in practice beat rival San Diego Chargers in Veteran shutdown cornerback Jim Caldwell: Caldwell is games on Sundays, and through on purpose, and him punting balls San Diego. They have won their Champ Bailey also contributes replacing Tony Dungy as the the fi rst six weeks of the season out of frustration. The Broncos fi rst six games and are looking greatly to the defense. Bailey has Colts head coach, and there was there have been several players, did not respond by pursuing the like a great team. been in the league for years and much speculation about how well teams, and coaches that have contract extension, but rather by One of the biggest surprises has shut down many recievers in he would do. The Colts answered surprised everyone. dealing out a suspension for the that goes along with Denver is his career. by letting their 6-0 record speak There is always a feel good story rest of the pre-season. This seemed the performance of their defense. With Dumerville and Bailey for itself. that the media and the American to humble Marshall because the They are fi rst in the NFL in leading the defense, Orton leading public are all over. The Denver public has not heard anything bad points allowed and ninth in yards the offense, and McDaniels New Orleans Saints: The Saints Broncos are defi nitely this year’s with that story since. allowed per game. leading analysts overseeing it all, I believe the fi nished last in the NFC South last feel good story. They collapsed The season started and no one attribute this recent success to the Broncos will continue their success. year. They are currently fi rst in the at the end of last year when they was even giving the Broncos a shift of the defensive scheme, They make an inspirational story, division with a 5-0 record. Led by found a way to blow a three game chance. They got rid of one of the and the performances of a few but the question that one must ask Quarterback Drew Brees, and a division lead with three weeks NFL’s premier quarterbacks, and players. now is will there be a fairy tale new and improved defense, this remaining in the season. After this they had a very weak defense in Shifting to the 3-4 defensive ending? Only time will tell. team looks very good. notorious collapse, soon-to-be hall the prior season. In Week One, of fame Coach Mike Shanahan the Broncos played the Cincinnati was fi red. The Broncos then Bengals, and after a touchdown went on to hire Josh McDaniels, late in the fourth quarter it looked a young assistant coach from like McDaniels and the Broncos the New England Patriots. were going to start the season with McDaniels and the Broncos then a loss. But with seconds left, Orton fell into a terrible situation when threw a pass intended for Brandon franchise Quarterback Jay Cutler Marshall down fi eld. Cincinnati was mentioned in trade rumors. Corner Back Leon Hall batted McDaniels quarterback from New the ball away from Marshall, but England, Matt Cassell, was on it landed in the hands of Denver the trade block, and McDaniels receiver Brandon Stokley. Stokley was considering trying to get him. took the ball 87 yards for the This angered Cutler greatly, and game-winning touchdown. he demanded a trade. They traded They did not look back from him to the Chicago Bears for draft there winning their next three picks and Quarterback Kyle Orton games. Denver was sitting at 4-0, just weeks later. but they had the Patriots in Week But, Cutler was not the only Five. This was a huge game for player that was frustrated this both the team and for McDaniels offseason. Star Wide Receiver as a coach. This game would show Brandon Marshall, who has a very whether the Broncos were a fl uke, bad history and many character or if they were the real deal. And Broncos Wide Receiver Brandon Marshall dives into the endzone to score the game tying touchdown in the fourth quarterl against the New England Patriots, eventually leading to a Denver victory. Courtesy of espn.com Water Polo Falls to Tigers Golf Plays in Prelims and 252, respectively. By Chanica Veranunt pass and launches it straight into 1-5. Mark Keppel also took part in By Justin Le News Editor the South Pasadena net. Without South Pas seemed to bring the the event, but was disqualifi ed due Sports Editor hesitation, a Tiger answered back, heat, attempting to score every The San Marino Girls’ Golf to their lack of players. The San Marino Boys’ Water throwing the ball past Adams and possession. The Tigers had four Team partook in the Hansen In addition, San Marino Polo team hosted their game into the net. more shot attempts; James blew Dam Pre-Lims Tournament on participated in a match against against the South Pasadena Tigers Almost immediately, the Tigers two and the other two fl ew over Wednesday, October 21. Arcadia High School at the Santa on Thursday, October 15. scored again off a missed ball off the net. In addition, San Marino lost Anita Golf Course on Monday, Under slightly chilly weather the top of the net. Junior Primary The Titans could not hold off to the Westridge Tigers 295-272 October 12 and in the Arcadia conditions, the Titans were unable Set Taylor Wong and Junior the Tigers offense twice more, on Monday, October 19, at the Golf Tournament on Thursday, to effectively execute plays or put Utility Tiaga Gutterres tried to get allowing them to extend the score Alhambra Golf Course. October 15, where they fi nished a stop to the Tigers’ offense. In the even but Taylor’s shot was off and to 1-7. Senior Left Flat Kerem “We started the season with a close fi fth overall. Schools that end, San Marino could not pull Tiaga’s was blocked. Taskin temporarily halted the the best round. Although it was a participated in the tournament out a victory, falling short to the However, the Tigers managed Tiger offense when he defl ected a loss to Arcadia, it was a starting included: Arcadia, Burroughs, Tigers 4-12. to rack on another point at the shot from a Tiger attacker. point that I thought it would lead Crescenta Valley, Burbank, and At the start of the game, San end of the quarter, throwing a ball However, the Tigers earned to a fantastic season,” commented San Marino with the scores of Marino seemed evenly matched under James’ right arm and into another handful of steals and Coach Wyeth Collo. 213, 229, 242, 249, and 252, with the Tigers. Senior Goalie the goal. scored on fast breaks. Kerem tried The Lady Titans who respectively. James Adams reached out to block The Titans failed to hold off the to answer back once more but his participated in the match included Mark Keppel was again a Tiger throw from the right side of Tiger offense in the second. Right shot was too short. Despite two Junior Charlene Hsu; Sophomore disqualifi ed due to the lack of the pool. Swimming down to other off the bat, the Tigers earned two more blocks from James however, Chanica Veranunt; and Freshmen players. end of the pool, Sophomore Left steals and two points off of fast South Pasadena was able to score Emilie Hsu, Caroline Van Hiel, Additionally, the San Marino Wing Everett Phillips received a transitions, bringing the score to again, tipping in the ball off the Elizabeth Van Hiel, and Gina Titans partook in the El Cariso side of the net to bring the score Wang with scores of 62, 50, 68, Golf Tournament on Thursday, to 1-9. The Titans picked up 56, 59, and 58, respectively. October 8, fi nishing fourth their offensive pace in the fourth Coach Collo believed how in overall. quarter, putting three more points nearly every match, the Lady The Lady Titans also participated on the board. Everett managed Titans had a chance to win. in the Burbank Golf Tournament to score again launching the ball Furthermore, the Lady Titans on Thursday, October 8. Schools over the Tiger goalie’s head. placed fi fth overall in the Rio that participated include: Arcadia, Despite two more misses from the Hodno League match at the Santa Burroughs, Burbank, Crescenta Titans, they scored once more, as Anita Golf Course on Thursday, Valley, San Marino, and Mark Tiaga shoots from the far left and October 15. Keppel with the scores of 180, scores. During the match, Captain 190, 209, and 223, respectively. Nonetheless, the Tigers Senior Tiffany Chang, Juniors Mark Keppel was disqualifi ed retaliated and score again. With Chelsea Lam, and Christina Lin, due to the lack of players. a last effort, the Titans managed Sophomores Camille Wang and “We are a young team and the to score once more as they were Carol Young; and Freshman Gaby future looks very good for next defeated 4-12. Arifi n competed to earn the scores year,” refl ects Coach Collo after The San Marino Titan Water of 53, 59, 48, 48, 46, and 58, the match. Polo team will face off against the respectively. The Lady Titans who now Monrovia Wildcats next Tuesday, Schools that participated qualify for the fi nals incude October 27. They are looking included: Arcadia, Burroughs, Camille, Tiffany, and Christina, to defeat Monrovia in hopes of Burbank, Crescenta Valley, San all of whom will play at the Rio In last week’s lost against South Pasadena, Sophomore Right Wing Alex gaining confi dence for the rest of Marino, and Mark Keppel with Hondo League fi nals next week Kang advances the ball up the pool. Kerry Chen//TITAN SHIELD the season. the scores of 213, 229, 242, 249, on Tuesday, October 27.

SAN MARINO HIGH SCHOOL TITAN SHIELD

Volume LVIII, Issue 2, Circulation 1600 San Marino, California, 91108 October 23, 2009 Future of Adobe House at Risk since 1991. Lacy Park has not been favorable By Amrapali Gokani With breaking foundation and to the school board nor the district News Editor termites, the house is no longer budget. The 1.4-mile move would San Marino Unifi ed School safe for occupation. The insurance cost at least $1.6 million. In District (SMUSD) is debating company of SMUSD has offered addition, the upgrades the house about moving or demolishing the $175,000 to bring the issue of the needs in plumbing, electrical, Michael White Adobe House. The house to a swift outcome. fl ooring, and roofi ng would cost decision will be made on October Currently, four different anywhere from $500 to $70,000 ASB Historian Senior Andrew Ching prepares for Red Ribbon Week by 27. possibilities have been discussed. once the Adobe reaches Lacy tying ribbons on trees around campus. Andrea Chiu//TITAN SHIELD The San Marino School Board These include the Adobe being Park. held a series of public hearings left as it is, moving it to Lacy “Our experts are telling us on the future of the Adobe house. Park, refurbishing the building up they do not have evidence of a ASB Hosts Red The house is currently located in to standards, and disassembling successful move of an adobe. SMHS next to the swimming pool. the building and to reconstruct it We’re trying to fi nd a way to Over the past years, the house at a later time. protect and preserve as much of served as a storage area for SMHS School Board President Jeannie the original adobe as possible, but Ribbon Week cheerleaders and as the home for Caldwell told the San Marino it’s very diffi cult,” commented Lady Nancy Reagan nationally the San Marino Historical Society Tribune, “We would entertain any SMUSD Superintendent Dr. Gary By Helen Hejran recognized Red Ribbon Week before they moved. legitimate option that would have Woods to the Los Angeles Times. Staff Writer in 1988. Currently, over 80 According to old school board as an outcome a move to Lacy SMUSD placed the Adobe SMHS ASB hosted four events million people participate in agendas, SMUSD has been Park.” However, the price it throughout October including Red Red Ribbon Week every year. looking for a place for the Adobe would cost to move the Adobe to (Continued on page 4) Ribbon Week from October 19 to Red Ribbon Week is arranged 23, Movie Night on October 20, by the National Family the October 19 California Pizza Partnership (NFP) in tribute Kitchen (CPK) fundraiser, and to Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, the Noodle World Fundraiser on a U.S. Drug Enforcement October 6. Administration agent, who died Red Ribbon Week is held to in the fi ght against drugs. give an understanding on living “[Red Ribbon Week] affects an alcohol and drug-free life to us in a positive way because the student body. it brings about the idea of “[Red Ribbon Week for no drugs,” refl ected ASB creating] awareness concerning Athletics Director Senior Ravin the problems related to the use of Ratnayake. tobacco, alcohol and other drugs Throughout the week, and to support the decision to live there were red ribbons a healthy, drug-free lifestyle,” along Huntington Drive. In commented ASB President Senior addition, students received the Stephanie Chow. opportunity to sign a pledge that Red Ribbon Week is a national states how they will live drug- event that began in California in free life. On Thursday, students the mid-1980s. Former President The Michael White Adobe house, whose future is undecided, stands on SMHS property behind the swimming pool and Ronald Reagan and Former First (Continued on page 5) next to the baseball fi eld. Vivian Lee//Titan Shield Tennis Triumphs Wildcats dominance into 6-0 victories over the Number Three Singles Inside This Issue: By David Gelt Managing Editor over the Number Three Singles Player from Monrovia. Michelle Player and Number One Player, Gandawidjaja won her third match AFS Presents Exchange Program On Tuesday, October 20, the respectively. with another 6-0 victory over the News (pg. 4) San Marino Lady Titans’ Varsity In the third singles round, Number One Singles Player for Smoke Arises from Auditorium (pg. 5) Tennis team handled the Monrovia Coach Paula Bush substituted the Lady Wildcats, and Larissa Lady Wildcats in a 18-0 rout. In Senior Taylor Chan for Michelle won by a 6-0 score for the third Rotary of the Month: Joyce Li the fi rst round of singles, Junior Chee in the Number One Singles (pg. 6) Number One Singles Player spot, where Taylor won 6-2 (Continued on page 14) Features In Memory of Alumnus Christopher Michelle Chee won her match Ng (pg. 7) 7-6 over the Monrovia Number One Singles, Sophomore Number Politicians Hand Out Undeserved Two Singles Player Michelle Scholarships (pg. 9) Opinion Gandawidjaja won 6-1 over her Soda Tax Promotes Economic Lady Wildcats counterpart, and Recovery (pg. 9) Freshman Number Three Singles Trick-Or-Fruit! (pg. 11) Player Larissa Phillips won 6-0 Spectrum ‘It’s Glee Club. Not Crunk Club’ over the Number Three Singles (pg. 12) Player from Monrovia, giving the Lady Titans a 3-0 lead. Football’s Streak Halted By Wildcats Then, in the second round of Sports (pg. 15) singles play, Michelle Chee won Girls’ Volleyball Falters to Monrovia her match 6-3 against the Lady (pg. 16) Wildcats Number Two Player while Michelle Gandawidjaja Junior Kate Knauss uses a forehand to slap the ball over the net in Tuesday’s and Larissa both extended their game against Monrovia. Jilly Ko//TITAN SHIELD 4 TITAN SHIELD NEWS OCTOBER 23, 2009 SMUSD to Lose AFS Offers Study Abroad Additionally, anyone interested Wofford remarked that she would By David Chan in visting another country received recommend “students interested a Piece of History Assistant News Editor a  yer and application packet. in learning a new language or The College and Career The AFS offers exchange perfecting their language skills, Center hosted an American Field programs that span from one who are open to new ideas, and Service (now of cially known as summer to an entire year. The who aren’t afraid to [open up] AFS) informational meeting on summer programs being offered and broaden their horizons” to the Wednesday, October 14 at 7 p.m. to high school students include AFS programs. for students and parents interested trips to China, France, Italy, Japan, In addition, students interested in the AFS student exchange and more. The summer programs in the exchange program must be program. begin during June and July. in good physical health, range The AFS is a worldwide, non- However, the presenters at the in age from 15 to 18, and have a pro t organization founded over meeting did not suggest going on grade point average (GPA) of at 60 years ago during the time of a semester or year-long program least 2.8. World War II. The purpose of the because it could interfere with the The summer programs’ tuitions organization is to create and foster acquisition of high school class- range between $6,000 to $9,000, intercultural relations between credits for graduation. while the year-long and semester people around the world. In each summer program, programs are $8,000 to $12,000. Eugene Dryden of the San Marino Historical Society observes the inside of Moreover, the organization students stay with their host Sophomore Jordon Dang the Michael White Adobe House. Courtesy of Los Angeles Times offers high school students the family for about  ve weeks. commented, “AFS looks like (Continued from page 1) that prides itself on its excellence opportunity to live with a family Students take an orientation a good program, and I would has ignored the Michael White in a foreign country and learn their class for a week before meeting love to go to a new country and House on the market at $1 Adobe, a signi cant historical native culture and language. with their host family in order to experience new things.” provided that the buyer will pick landmark. I now know that the The meeting consisted of two become familiar with the country’s Students who are interested in up all the other costs for any building belongs to the district PowerPoint presentations by AFS language and culture. the AFS program but were not decision made. which has allowed it to fall into  eld recruiter Ms. Jen Reinhardt After the students leave their able to attend the information Dr. Woods stated, “It all neglect,” San Marino Historical and Senior Victoria Drake. Both host family, AFS spends a week meeting can visit usa.afs.org comes down to money. We don’t Society member Judy Carter described their experiences asking them questions about their for more information. Also, have [the] resources to put into commented to the Los Angeles with AFS and gave advice to experience. students can pick up a brochure a structure we cannot use. A Times. prospective foreign exchange The AFS information night and information packet from the price tag of over $1,000,000 is Carter also mentioned that if students. coordinator and liaison Mrs. Julie Counseling Of ce. signi cant money for a small any house in San Marino begins district.” to have problems, the city would SMUSD suffered heavy losses force the owner to obey the last year due to cuts made by necessary standards of the city- the State government. Since the building codes. The city did not district already has a small budget, use the same method in dealing the cuts did not aid in providing with the Adobe house.  nancial assistance that would The Michael White Adobe be needed for any decision made house has been on the campus about the house. since a century before the The priority of the house has high school opened and was been low on the school district’s originally the private residence agenda since the 1990s. Yet, as the of Michael White, a European house continued to deteriorate, sailor who moved to California. student health and safety became Members of the community an issue. believe that it should be used as a Even though the price tag teaching tool and be recognized for the Adobe has gone over as one of the 39 still-standing, $1,000,000, many community original adobe houses in Los members do not believe that a Angeles County. 164-year-old building should be Mrs. Caldwell concluded, removed because it is considered “Everybody wants it saved, but a historical landmark for the city. no one wants [to pay] to save “I think it is ironic that a district it.” Club Attends AIDS Walk set up for the event by decorating wanted to attend],” commented TITAN SHIELD By Camille Wang Assistant Features Editor booths and unloading trucks of Co-President Senior William Pau. Sta! Box food. Volunteers helped out with The SMHS Key Club “We wanted to help with booths and in atable obstacle Board of Directors Advisor volunteered at three events in the the Ability First Organization courses. They made sure that the Lou Ann Fuentes past two months, the AIDS Walk because we never really helped children did not overcrowd the Managing Editors Andrea Chiu Section Editors on Sunday, October 18, the Ability them before. We saw their festival area and remained safe. David Gelt First Gourmet on Sunday, October online and asked them if we could Admittance to the festival was Samantha Lai News Features 4, and the Harvest Moon Festival help,” remarked Angel. free, but any food from the booths Kimberly Nguyen Amrapali Gokani Jennifer Mauser on Sunday, September 27. Key Club members also cost some money. However, Chanica Veranunt Associate Editors of Copy At the AIDS Walk, volunteers volunteered at the Harvest Moon volunteers received free food. Amrapali Gokani Opinion Spectrum stayed from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Festival in Arcadia Park from 9 “I thought this [event] was Justin Le Alexa Wei Mathew Lim walking a total of 6.2 miles each. a.m. to 5 p.m. pretty successful; usually it’s one “I felt it was a great turnout, we The city of Arcadia and the of our most famous events [among Assistant Editors Sports Ads had a lot of people go. It was great television channel, LA18, asks club members]. I could tell that Luke Benuska Lauren Bagheri to see thousands of other people Key Club to participate in the the volunteers helped out not just News Features Justin Le David Chan Camille Wang from other schools attend as event every year, due to the large for community service hours, Photography Technology well,” Co-President Senior Angel number of attendants and the but because they wanted to help Technology Jilly Ko Randy Lee Pan commented. requirement of many volunteers […] for the joy of volunteering,” Derek Lee Justin Quan In a private residence in South to run the event. Angel stated, “The best part was Pasadena from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sixty members of Key Club seeing all the work we did. After Photographers the Ability First Gourmet took volunteered at the festival this we  nished, the whole place Michael Bernstein Kerry Chen Bonnie Jin place. year, which has been consistent looked amazing. The fact that Vivian Lee Karen Situ Henry Hsu Ability First is an organization with the numbers from previous we did all this felt like a great focused on helping children years. accomplishment.” Sta! Writers and adults with physical and “I think [the moon festival] In addition, Key Club will hold developmental disabilities, and was really good because this year their next event, the ALS Run, Joie Fan Helen Hejran the event honored patrons. we had to cut some of the people to raise awareness for Gehrig Doug Mayberry Kevin Tran Thomas Tai Key Club volunteers helped because we had too many [that Disease tomorrow. October 23, 2009 NEWS TITAN SHIELD 5 Smoke Rousts Campus addition, the damages included By Amrapali Gokani Students and staff were safe at News Editor all times and the  re department destroyed a couple of racks with and District maintenance and coat hangers have been destroyed, Excessive smoke appreared on operation team handled the matter and the hangers have been thrown the north side of Neher Auditorium “ef ciently,” according to a away; the A-frames that advertise in the electrical room at 12:24 district news release. productions have been damaged, p.m. last Tuesday. Dance Department Chair Ms. and the extra lighting equipment The smoke occurred when Bonnie Hanson explained, “My will need to be cleaned. the backup power supply in the initial reaction was [that] someone “My biggest worry was [that a] electrical room started a spark. pulled the  re alarm, and [I] was  re would spread to the auditorium. The San Marino Fire Department, not too sure on how to respond. Also, when the custodian and I responded immediately and I did move the girls out to the located [the cause of the smoke in On Tuesday, October 6, Freshmen Derek Kwan and Ryan Lee eat at arrived at the school by 12:35 hallway in the opposite direction the electrical room], we could not Noodle World to help fundraise for Homcoming. Karen Situ//TITAN SHIELD p.m. As they arrived, the faculty of the  re unknowingly.” actually see it because there was so evacuated the students onto the Students also had many much smoke,” Drama Department softball  eld located on the upper reactions that ranged from humor Head Ms. Blake Williams stated. ASB Plans west end of campus. that students were in “slight chaos” The district’s insurance After an investigation by the to those amazed that SMHS may company met with the district  re department, students returned have caught on  re. on Wednesday to discuss the Various Events to the central campus. “I was at home when I started damage. When the  fth period bell rang, getting text messages, so I rushed Assistant Principal of Guidance (Continued from page 1) SMHS. With every  yer all students except those who had back to school, and when I saw and Instruction Mrs. Mary presented, 20 percent of the class in the art wing, auditorium, the smoke, I got scared,” Senior Johnson concluded, “Given the be available to sign at the proceeds went to SMHS. theater, and 600 wing went to their Paulene Castro commented. fact that we did not have good Architectural Rally Point (ARP). Fundraising Commissioner normal classes. Those who could The smoke did not reach the information prior to the ringing Furthermore, ASB will hand out Senior Caroline Lushbough not return to their classrooms met auditorium, so all the damage was of the lunch bell, the faculty red lollipops at the ARP during received a  yer about bene ts in the quad, except math teacher within the electrical room. The acted responsibly and evacuated Red Ribbon Week. for schools from CPK so she Mr. Robert Cornelison’s class, room was totally black with smoke the students, and the students “Other than Red Ribbon Week, contacted the cooperation for which met in the library. so it will need to be repainted. In responded very well.” students do not realize how drugs the CPK fundraiser. and alcohol is a serious problem. Earlier this month, ASB [ASB] thinks Red Ribbon Week hosted another fundraiser at will positively support a healthy, Noodle World to raise money drug-free lifestyle,” commented for SMHS. SMHS received Stephanie. 25 percent of the money made Moreover, ASB showed the throughout that day roughly Dark Knight during the movie about $700 - which concentrates night. ASB chose this movie on fundraising for homcoming. because they wanted to promote Both Stephanie and Coronation since this year’s theme Underclassman Representative is “A Night in Gotham City.” Sophomore Kristin Charlton ASB held the movie outside expressed how the turnout of the the ASB room, and supplied sofas Noodle World fundraiser was and various snacks such as smores better than they expected. and hot cocoa for the students. “The food was really good, “[The movie night] turned out and not only did we have fun, better than we expected,” stated but we also supported the ASB Sophomore Class President school,” re ected Kristin. Tyler Ho. Today, October 23, ASB will Additionally, ASB hosted a hold a pep rally during lunch fundraiser at the California Pizza at the ARP “to pump up” the Kitchen (CPK) on Los Robles and student body for the football Union. game against South Pasadena Throughout the day, students High School that will take place San Marino  re ghters exit the 600 wing after being called to the school for a small electrical  re in the electrical room could attend CPK to support at South Pasadena at 7 p.m. by the auditorium. Courtesy of Titan News Team Red Cross Gives Back to the Community be at least 17 or obtain a parental By Chanica Veranunt and Beverly Hills from 10 a.m. to members attended the event. One uses the Alyx Machine, which News Editor 1 p.m. In the past, members consent form if he or she was 16 utilizes a smaller needle, while The purpose of the event was volunteered by handing out snacks at the time of donation. the other technique uses a regular The San Marino High School to promote awareness about AIDS and supporting the walkers, but In September 2009, the sized needle. Red Cross Club (RCC) hosted and “to show that SMHS RCC this year RCC decided to actually National Blood Bank Association If the individual chooses to its  rst blood drive of the year on actually does care about how allowed the members to participate introduced new weight and height use the Alyx machine, her or she Wednesday, October 7. In addition, serious AIDS is,” re ected RCC in the walk. requirements to prevent the would save six lives compared RCC members attended the AIDS Historian Sophomore Michelle “The walk has always been amount of fainting students. to the three lives a regular donor walk on Sunday, October 18. Pai. enjoyable since there are many The policy applies to all high would save. RCC participated in the annual A total of two adults, seven other high school students like us, school students and donors who Throughout the day, 59 AIDS walk in West Hollywood cabinet members, and eight club who were pumped up and ready are under the age of 19 since students wanted to donate blood, to walk and make a difference!” young donors are more likely to but only 48 were able to reach the exclaimed RCC Vice President have negative results than older requirements. In total, 67 people Junior Hillary Shar. donors. donated blood, which may save In addition, RCC hosted its Even if students donated up to 201 lives. The remainder of blood drive in the Multipurpose successfully in the past, the new the donors were adults. Room from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. After policy did not allow them to “This year [there were] fewer the blood donation, RCC gave donate blood if they did not meet people who donated because of each donor free food, a free shirt, the new criteria for height and the new policy, but in all, it was a and a coupon that can be redeemed weight. pretty good turnout,” commented at a local restaurant. “[I am satis ed with the turnout] RCC Publicity Junior Charlene “Since after you give blood, you because with the new restrictions, Hsu. might feel woozy so we decided we thought more people would Furthermore, members of RCC to give them something extra not be able to donate blood,” will attend the LA Memory Walk as a little ‘thank you’ reward,” commented Hillary. on Sunday, November 1, the Lupus commented Michelle. For students who could donate, Walk on Saturday, November 14, Senior Justin Hillman donates blood in the Multipurpose Room on If a student wanted to donate they could chose one of the two and the Down Syndrome Walk on Wednesday, October 7. Bonnie Jin//TITAN SHIELD blood, the individual needed to different types of blood donations. Sunday, November 15. 6 TITAN SHIELD FEATURES OCTOBER 23, 2009 Rotary Student of the Month October

Hey Titans! I can’t even begin to experience in Academic Decathlon By Bonnie Jin express what a great honor it is is considered one of her best Staff Writer to get chosen for this award. During memories at SMHS although it is my four years at SMHS, I have seen so For many students at SMHS, taking not the extent of her activities. many inspirational role models write this very part in one extracurricular activity can “Music has played a huge letter, so to have my words and picture here truly contribute to their success in high school. role in my life because my means a lot to me. Thank you so much, SMHS. However, Senior Joyce Li participates mom is a piano teacher, my I remember being an anxious freshman, looking up in multiple school-organized groups. dad plays the violin, to the gigantic seniors that loomed over us. Now, we aarere the In addition to being co-president of and my brother plays seniors. Four years have passed so quickly. First off, I’d like to thank CSF, Joyce is also a captain of Academic the piano, cello, and everyone who has made my four years here a BLAST! Whether you were a close friend Decathlon and an assistant section drums,” Joyce stated. with whom I shared many moments or someone who just gave me a “hi” every now and leader in marching band. However, She developed a talent then, you’ve all made an impact on me, and for that I thank you all. To my friends, thanks Joyce fi nds balancing her activities and for playing the so much for inspiring me, laughing at my nerdy jokes and random spasms of happiness. schoolwork to be “really stressful.” piano and fl ute at an To my fellow band geeks, thanks for a great time playing “ride the pony,” eating at band After joining Academic Decathlon as a early age due to her dinners, and cheering at football games. To my fellow alpaca friends, thanks for reading my sophomore, Joyce has been a captain of the family’s background in crazy emails, and studying late at insane times. I can’t wait to compete with you guys one team for the past two years. “Decathlon has music. Taking part last year. AZUGGA! :D Thanks for making me feel at home with you guys. Last but not least, THANK YOU SMHS TEACHERS AND STAFF for guiding me and letting me helped me plan better, excel, be a leader, in the Southwestern fi nd my own path even when I stumble. All of you have inspired me to learn, not for and make people feel comfortable. It has Youth Music Festival grades, but for the love of knowledge. Thank you for helping me realize that book also helped with my study skills.” However, competitions, Joyce has smarts will only take me so far and for teaching me skills and habits that will Joyce mentioned, “Decathlon is really won two awards during carry me not only through college, but also through life. Thank you so much. stressful because we study ten subjects the past two years. She The most important lesson that I’ve learned is to pursue what which doesn’t allow me to fi t many other took second place in her you love, and if you are to do something, do it with passion. activities into my schedule.” However, this sophomore summer and fi rst Looking at a task like a new adventure is much more makes Joyce no less successful for she has her junior summer. As an SMHS fun. Everyday is a new journey. I hope you guys won a gold medal in Super Quiz, a silver assistant fl ute section leader, all have just a great time at SMHS as Sincerely, medal in science, and a bronze medal for Joyce considers marching band I have. Thanks again! art and music in Academic Decathlon. a great experience. She enjoys “singing Even though Decathlon has its challenges, on the bus” as they ride to the band Joyce enjoys the “Decathlon study sessions competitions, as well as “cheering on [because] Decathlon is like family.” The teammates at the football games since they team has formed a strong bond, after meeting work so hard.” Bonding with her fellow is ready to move on to college and three times a week. At meetings, Joyce band members has made her four-year- major in business or psychology at Joyce Li and her group members are able to “talk a experience in marching band unforgettable. Cornell, UC Berkeley, or Stanford. lot and eat a lot of food” while preparing Although Joyce’s time in high school “I will be sad to leave [San Marino], but I am for the competitions. Overall, Joyce’s will soon be coming to an end, she also excited for new experiences,” she stated. Dancing To Her Own Rhythm

By Jennifer Mauser the intense six-week summer course. At this time,e, sheshe waswas alsoalso a membermember DespiteDespite howhow muchmuch timetime shesh spends Features Editor “During the summer program, I didn’t of three competitionetition teams: a jazz duo,duo, a dancingd ancing in front ooff people, know a lot of what the other girls were lyrical trio, andd a hiphip hophop company of eighteight CharlotteCharlotte rarelyrarely becomes Swaying to the rhythm of popular songs doing. So I just had to watch everyone people. Throughoutghout thethe nine competitionscompetitions nervous.nervous. SheShe stated,stated, “When“W I’m at a school dance is often many peoples’ else and just jump and hope that I that year, her hiphip hophop company earnedearned performingperforming oon stage, extent of dance experience. However, for didn’t land facedown. It was definitely multiple gold medalsmedals whilewhile thethe jazz andand everythingeverything just goes away Junior Charlotte Morgan, dance is her life an experience,” Charlotte reflected. lyrical groups won silversilver andand bronze.bronze. andand ttherehere reallyreally isn’t time as she is a member of the UUponpon findingfinding outout thatthat sheshe hadhad mademade thet “There are loadsoads of ototherher stylesstyles out toto bebe nnervous.ervous. TheT music eleliteite SMHS Dance rrareare anandd ddifficultifficult aadvancementdvancement from tthe there, and itt was reallyreally coocooll to justjust makesmakes mme move.” Company anand,d, bbeginningeginning cclasslass to Company, CCharlotteharlo experience that,”t,” CharlotteCharlotte mentioned.mentioned. ThisThis year, Charlotte ccommented,ommented, “I was reareallylly surprisesurprised.d. I hhad This year, sheshe is participating in is excitedexcited to have toto gogo backback likelike threethree times to makemake suresu the statewidee SpotlightSpotlight dancedance thethe chancecha to formerly, I was rea reallylly on thethe list.list. It competition. For thisthis choreographc h oreo threehree competitive teams. waswas hhardard to imaimaginegi program, sshehe forfor thethe school’s ChCharlottearlotte joinedjoined thethe thatthat I hadhad actuallyactua had to intermediateinte beginning dance class as a madem a d e it. choreograph classcl as the freshman simplysimply because a solo that portrayedportrayed teacher’st e shehe “always likelikedd both techniqueechnique andand stylizedstylized assistant.a s s i s dancingdancing to music.” TThishis hashas definitelydefinitely beenbee dance and performrform it in front of jjudgesudges SheShe alsoal had She quickly fell in mymy bbiggestiggest accompaccomplishment.”lishmen and college scouts.couts. If sheshe advancesadvances in thethe opportunityopportu to loveove with t h e DuringDuring herher first yearye the competition,ion, more collegescolleges willwill create a dadance for artart aandnd ““waswas in Dance Company, sshe be there to watchwatch herher dance.dance. SheShe halfhalf of Dance Company always realizedrealized howhow differentdifferent it may even wwinin scscholarshipholarship money. toto perform in Kaleidoscope.Kal dancingdancing and waswas from thethe bbeginningeginni Charlotte commented,commented, “I tthinkhink CharlotteCharlotte is planningplanning toto apply to practicing outside class.class. “So“ it is a really goodgood experience, schoolsschools suchsuch as JulliardJulliard wherewher she can of class.” I hhadad to even if I don’tn’t win, to just major in dancedance beforebefore contcontinuingi on TThath a t adjustadjust andand I get my namee out ttherehere so to dancedance withwith professionalprofessional companies.c following alsoalso neeneededded to cacatcht colleges knoww whowho I amam a n d InIn conclusion,conclusion CharlotteCharlotte mentioned,m summer,ummer, up withwith everyoneeveryo how I dance. That’s what is hard “On my dance cubby cover there shehe else.e l se. TheyThey were a llotot betterbett about dancing. Because there is so much is a quote that reads ‘Why do I decidedd id d to auditiondii ffor thanh me at performancef so I hhad competition, you really have to put yourself dance? Why do I breathe?’ That Dance Company by partaking in some improving to do,” Charlotte stated. out there and fight for what you want.” pretty much describes who I am.” OCTOBER 23, 2009 FEATURES TITAN SHIELD 7 In Loving Memory of Christopher Ng SMHS Class of 2009 April 9, 1991 - September 26, 2009 Born on April 9, 1991, Christopher Ng spent his early childhood in West Covina with his parents and older brother, Karlin. His christening marked a departure from the “K” pattern that ran among his family members; for example, his older cousins on hish mother’s side are named Karl, Karen and Kara. However, at the last minute, Chris’s father David found “Kris” too feminine, and so his newborn son became Christopher. As a child growing up in West Covina, Chris developed many close-knit friendships with his family, neighbors, and friends. The house next to his belongs to the Ferguson family, whose sons Eric and Mark Ferguson became best friends with Chris and treated him like family. Three houses away lives Jakob Hernandez, whom Chris had known since infancy. Around the time Chris’s mother, Elsa, was pregnant with Chris, Jakob’s mother was also pregnant with him, so the two of them spent time together as babies. Chris attended elementary and middle school in West Covina until he moved to San Marino aft er seventh grade to live with his aunt’s family. At the time, Chris’s mother had trouble taking care of Chris because of her work schedule, so she decided to send him to school in San Marino where he could receive a better education. Initially, Chris did not want to leave the comforts of the home and the people whom he had grown up with, so he found it diffi cult to adapt to a new life at Huntington Middle School and San Marino in general. He soon made friends on his own aft er some struggles, but he would return home on weekends to spend time with his family and old childhood friends. Once he settled into high school, Chris was able to enjoy himself more with his friends from SMHS, especially during his junior and senior years. Beginning from his unique naming, Chris became known for keeping an odd mix of hobbies and interests throughout his childhood and teenage years. At one time, he was so obsessed with plants that he wanted to become a farmer. At home, the backyard housed chickens that Chris and his family had raised from chicks and kept for eggs. He collected kaleidoscopes and in his free time, he enjoyed solving puzzles and folding origami, fi lling his room with his creations. Eventually, Chris’s main interest became food aft er watching his mother cook. Although she discouraged him from cooking, Chris ignored her requests and learned to make basic foods. The fi rst food that Chris made was a simple fried egg, and the way he cooked it was so that the yolk remained partially cooked but still runny. He adored all kinds of meat in addition to abalone, crab, and lobster. The fi rst cake that Chris baked was for Kara’s birthday, and from then he baked all kinds of pastries for every special event. In spite of his passionp for food, Chris had originally considered attending an art school. Concerned, Chris’sC mother had spoken to him when Chris was 14 about his plans for the future, and he assuredass her that not only would he graduate from high school, he would attend college, althoughal he had yet to decide what to pursue. Once Chris showed his deep interest in art, he took aft erschool art classes along with various art and ROP programs at SMHS.SM One day, Chris asked his mother if culinary school was a possible choice for him,h but his mother disapproved. Chris was in love with food, though, so he cooked andan watched Food Network whenever possible. When Chris baked two cakes for his momother and aunt to celebrate Mother’s Day, his mother fi nally acknowledged how gift ed herh son was and began to support him. In a sense, food consumed him as much as he consumed it, so he rejoiced at being accepted into the California School of Culinary Arts. His excitement was enough to make him signgn up for a morning class at six a.m., which meant Chris would rise at four to arrive on time. Throughout high school, Chris had woken up early enough to get to school on time but culinary school was an entirely new commitment. He began going to culinary school in July and would bringg homeh all the delicious food he made in class, more than his family could fi nish. Yet Chris did not just love food; he loved sharing it and talking about it with family, friends, and even his classmates. This generosity came from his heart, and he gave what he had,, cupcakes or a kind word. Chris’s playful sense of humor lit up the atmosphere,, but he also recognized the darker moments in life. Although oft en others judged him by his appearance, Chris refused He touched the hearts of those he knew because he could empathize with and understand another person’s happiness and pain. Even for those who knew Chris briefl y, he made his aff able personality and generosity apparent to everyone. He gave and loved unconditionally because he believed strongly in helping others without expectation of reward. All the love and memories Chris had with everyone in his life will endure forever in their hearts. 8 TITAN SHIELD FEATURES OCTOBER 23, 2009 SINGING like a superstar

By Camille Wang musical, “The Sound of Music.” “It was the most amazing moment outside of school.” Instead, Assistant Features Editor “I sang more than I talked,” she of my life,” Lianna refl ected. she is enrolled in Girl’s Choir. remarked on her performance. Daily singing rehearsals can When asked if she would Many people fi nd themselves “It was a fun and good be diffi cult and may interfere like to pursue a career in in awe of gifted vocalists who experience; I wasn’t really into with homework, but Lianna still singing, she responded without can sing beautifully. Freshman theatre until middle school.” manages “to balance it out.” hesitation, “Yeah, defi nitely.” Lianna Gutierrez is one of these Although many people are afraid She usually practices singing three After she graduates from talented singers with a powerful to sing in front of large crowds, hours each day, but on weekends, high school, Lianna plans to voice at a very younyoungg aage.ge. LiannaLianna is no longerlonger nervousner she commits herself entirely to continue singing in college. Lianna beganbegan singing at the onstage.onstage. She singing, dancing, and acting. “I’m really a USC fan at heart, age of threehree and has been considersc ons i d “I wouldn’t really be doing and they have a good music taking singingging lessons “performing“perform anything [if it were not for program. But if I don’t get in, for the pastastt inin frontfront of singing]; I’d probably be better at I’ll probably attend Juilliard eight years.s. people”p eopl school becausebecause singing or NYU,” she mentioned.m Currently,y, thethe best takes a lotlot of Lianna concluded, “[Singing“ she takeskes partpart abouta work,”” she is] fun and it’s private vocalcal singing.sin gi mentioned.ioned. the only lessons at LALA “In the Althoughhough thing Master Choraloral beginningbeginn Liannan na I’mI good in preparationation I was qualifi ed for at.a It’s for shows and [nervous],[nerv Chamberm ber likeli God competitions.tions. butbut now Choir this gavega me a She competesmpetes it’si t year, she voicevo and about once alreadyalre had to nothingno every two weeks, in my drop it else.els When usually oonn the systemsys becauseuse I’mI’m on weekends, and has soso I shee stage,stag I even wonn severalseveral knowkn “couldn’tdn’t feel like I Filipino communityommunity whatw go to transformtra singing competitions.mpetitions. iti all thethe intointo me.” Back at HHuntingtonuntington feelsfee summermer LiannaLi Middle School like.like. I feel rreally classese s is looking (HMS), shehe received freefree because I’m not and it forwardforwa to fi rst placee in their really outgoing,” outgoing ” she admitted. admi took up this year’s seventh grade talent show. Lianna’s idol is Beyoncé because a lotot choirchoir showss and In addition to singing, Lianna she is “really talented, well- of timeme cannotcannot wait enjoys acting and dancing. Last rounded, and down-to-earth.” becausese of aallll ofof thethe forfor herh voice year she played a nun in the HMS She even met the famous singer. trips and practices that occur to bebe heard. OCTOBER 23, 2009 OPINION TITAN SHIELD 9 Soda Tax Provides Environmental Benefi ts consumption of an addictive must become healtheir in order next ten years, enough money to during the process of making By Thomas Tai substance, then it could certainly to prevent this from happening. cover almost half of the budget aluminum cans. According to Staff Writer affect the amount of soda people Reducing consupmtion of sugary defi cit of California. A federal tax the Environmental Protection Coke, Pepsi, Sprite, Fanta and drink. So, a tax would discourage drinks will do this. could generate even more income Agency, it takes 229 British many other carbonated drinks people from In addition, many states are for the government to spend. Thermal Units, or BTUs, of have been popular drinksks buying currently short on funding, Hopefully, Congress and the energy to make one aluminum in America for decades. especially California which is government will spend the income soda can from newly mined Now, lawmakers onn running a budget defi cit of over from a soda tax wisely. ore, while making a can from Capitol Hill and $26 billion according to the Finally, the tax will give recycled aluminum requires only in Sacramento Offi ce of the State Controller. money back to the people it taxes. eight BTUs of energy. The fewer are considering With the amount of red ink the Currently, the state of California fossil fuels that are burned, imposing a state is drowning in, any feasible has a program that pays people the less effect they have on the federal tax on source of income would be who bring their used cans, bottles, environment and the atmosphere, sugary drinks extremely welcome. Studies by and other various recyclables to reducing global warming in and other the Department of Commerce recycling centers. Depending on the process. Clearly, people beverages to illustrate that California’s the state,, while a singleg can or must layy a ggood foundation of raise money for economeconomyy is the larlargestgest in the bottle will ononlyly fetch a few centscents,, environmental protection for healthcare reform nation and would be the seventh- the accumulation of said cans anandd the next generationgener and their and to decrease largest in the world were it an bottles along with the tax wilwilll descendants. the overwhelming indeindependentpendent countrcountry.y. Because motivate many more consumeconsumerr In conclusioconclusion, a soda tax is budget defi cit. This of the budget defi cit, important to recycle, which they may nnotot a viviableable econoeconomic solution for proposed initiative could soda,da, prprogramsograms have lost fundifundingng and hahaveve bbotheredothered to ddoo bebefore.fore. A tataxx state and federfederal governments. help reduce rates of obesity, lleading too a many are unemployed. It would be on soda would motivate frequenfrequentt The proposed tax would also while raising money and helping decrease iin sugar consumption andnd disastrous for the state legislature and occasional soda-drinkers ttoo promote healthierhealth eating and the environment. obesity levels. This would resultult to allow this recyclingrecy habits During these times of in a reduced number of patientsnts marvel of amonga the public. economic hardship, many with heart disease and diabetes,es, ececonomicsonomics to TheT concept of people do not have money to lessening the strain on governmentnt fafallll bbecauseecause placingp a tax on spend on luxuries, such as soda, health programs such as Medicare.re. of tthehe sugary,s carbonated providing an excellent deterrent This is crucial because studies by lobblobbyingying of drinksd should not against the purchase of these the Congressional Budget Offi ce, the American beb abandoned. unhealthy drinks. However, a a nonpartisan government agency,cy, Beverage DespiteD the study conducted by Kaoshiung have shown that spending on Association desperated University regarding Taiwan’s Medicare alone is fi ve percent of whwhichich ststatesates economice straits tax on cigarettes shows that even the Gross Domestic Product of thehe its belief that thisth country is a tax of ten Taiwanese dollars United States. By 2035, this fi gureure the soda tax currentlycu suffering (app. 33 cents USD) reduced is estimated to rise to ten percent.nt. “j“justust won’t work” when it comes get their money back by turninturningg from, its leadleaders should not consumption by over 22 percent. Unless the increase in Medicareare to reducing obesity. Even more in their recyclables to recyclinrecyclingg squander this opportunity to This is clear evidence that even a spending is stopped, the massiveve importantly, economists have centers. This recycling alsalsoo create a new popolicy of fi nancial small tax will signifi cantly affect borrowing the government willill cacalculatedlculated tthathat a one-one-dollardollar tax on helps reduce negative effects on rationality, imprimproved health, and people’s eating and drinking use to fi nance Medicare will causese carbonated drinks would prproduceoduce the environment by reducing ththee biological benevbenevolence. habits. If a tax could affect the massive tax increases. Americansns over $10 billion dollars over the amount ooff fofossilssil ffuelsuels bburnedurned Politicians’ Bias Affects Scholarship Recipients their district a scholarship even not give them the experience or families who have six to seven was the fi rst scholarship to By Helen Hejran if the student lacks the grades knowledge necessary for choosing fi gure trust funds. guarantee a full-aid scholarship Staff Writer to merit such a distinction. The which students should receive State-funded scholarships are to a four-year public university Many students work hard to Chicago Tribune conducted an scholarships. Hand-picking no longer fulfi lling their original or an equivalent amount for a earn scholarships, but they may analysis of the General Assembly students to receive scholarships purpose: making college education private university to all qualifi ed be toiling in vain. Republican scholarships awarded between should be left to the professionals, more accessible. Because most applicants from households Representative Angelo Saviano 2003 and 2008, and at least especially those in the fi eld of of these programs are based on with an annual income of less awarded scholarships to at 140 tuition waivers education. merit rather than need, funding than $66,000. HOPE reached least seven campaign went to relatives It is already diffi cult enough for goes to students who are already many middle-class students who contributors of campaign students to receive scholarships, privileged. Also, changes in the were ineligible for fi nancial aid, this past year. donors, 12 to but when politicians arbitrarily requirements intended to reduce but as the economy grew, the Democrat students who give out scholarships the student the number of recipients during income limit was removed and Senator Rickey work for has a harder time for no reason. tough economy and tight budget upper-class students also became Hendon gave lawmakers, In a survey by US News, 90 years affect the poorest students, eligible for the program. a two-year and 87 other percent of colleges claimed they the ones the scholarships were State-funded scholarships scholarship to politically- did not provide enough grants to originally planned for. exist to give the fi nancially weak the daughter connected every student who could receive For example, the Indiana a chance to not to go to college, of his political people. fi nancial aid. Scholarships are Twenty-fi rst Century Scholars despite of fi nancial hardships. action committee With the being awarded to under-qualifi ed, Program offers a full tuition waiver Today, when the government is treasurer. These are infl uence of wealthy students when poorer to all applicants. The program short of money, it makes it harder just two of many cases politicians, students ones who have worked hard do was geared towards students for the poorest students to be able where politicians abuse their are unfairly put onto an easier path not receive the scholarships they who qualifi ed for free or reduced to receive the scholarships when power to award scholarships. to get accepted by universities and need. lunches in the eighth grade, the the already privileged continue Across the nation, politicians receive a scholarship. Admission Cristina Quinn, a private time when students sign a to receive them. This is worsened hand scholarships out to offi cers feel pressured to admit an commissions counselor contract stating they by politicians’ bias towards families that support them while applicant who is not eligible for in Rhode Island, plan to meet politically-connected students. more deserving students are the university, but has the support stated how “this criteria that Allowing politicians to overlooked. Universities should of a lawmaker, for fear that they has been an awful determine who receives make admissions and scholarship will endure repercussions. The year for students scholarships is unfair to many decision. Chicago Tribune’s investigation who need money.” students because lawmakers Giving politicians the power to showed how hundreds of An escalating number will usually pick the choose scholarship recipients is applicants to the University of of students with low grades students whose families are unnecessary and corrupt. Every Illinois got placed onto a special but high-income families are well-connected or donate to year, the 177 lawmakers who administration path because of receiving an increasing amount of their campaigns. A politician’s comprise the General Assembly their ties to power brokers. If merit awards. At the same time, right to distribute scholarships are allocated the equivalent of politicians lose the opportunity less low- and middle- income makes has no genuine purpose and two four-year scholarships to to give scholarships to students, families are receiving fi nancial them eligible should be taken away for the give to whomever they choose as admission offi cers will be able to aid and fewer scholarships. She for college benefi t of students who actually long as the recipients live in their choose the best students without tells US News, “If these were A scholarships upon deserve the scholarships. district. Politicians are given the fearing for their careers. students, I would understand,” high school graduation. chance to reward any student in Politicians make laws; that does but some were B- students with Georgia’s HOPE scholarship